[tcpike]

I am desperate for a change of pace in my training and looking to do swim as an alternative for fitness, but will be honest do not know any technique what so ever.

I live in AZ where I ride year round, so the past two years, training has been 6 days of riding per week during the race season, and some days I think going to any pool (they are quite abundant here) and swimming instead.

Is it uncommon to find a pool that offers freestyle technique tips? Or would I have to join a tri club type deal and do group swim stuff?

Any info is very appreciated, thanks.

 

[thatsmybush]

Total Immersion is a very well written book that I believe they have a video or DVD of as well. The technique breaks things down very well. When I got into tri I was basically a stone in water, but with that book and some practice things have changed dramatically over the years. Could not really do it justice here...but it involves the feeling of swimming downhill, using your head to ensure shallow legs and good torso rotation. The book would be well worth the purchase.

As for tri clubs, have never been in one myself most triathletes that I have known are more solitary creatures when it comes to training and I guess I fall into that catagory. But being that your in AZ there are probably some well established clubs...finding someone to take the time to teach rather than do their 400 repeats may be more difficult.

 

[CC09]

you could try aqua jogging. runners use it for rehab and also when they want to mix up training. its a good workout, and it would work your legs like running (somewhat) check it out.

 

[edwin headwind]

swimming

Swimming is an essential part of my winter training along with x-country skiing. Swimming develops all the muscles that are neglected when you are on the bike. Even though it's a great cardio workout, core strengthener, and muscle toner it is also completly low impact and injury-free. During spring and summer obviously more time is spent on the bike but I still like to get for a swim a couple hours per week.